it doesn't feel right

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it doesn't feel right" is correct and can be used in written English
It is often used to express a sense of discomfort or uncertainty about something. Example: "I read through the contract again, but something about it doesn't feel right. I think we should have our lawyer look it over before signing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She is breezy about online footprints – "inevitable" – and plans to keep blogging until "it doesn't feel right any more.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Loyalty is a feeling, not an idea ; if it doesn't feel right, it probably isn't.

WikiHow

"It doesn't feel right.

The New York Times

But it doesn't feel right," she says.

The Guardian

STEPHIE: It -- it doesn't feel right.

The New York Times

UNDINE: Oh, it doesn't feel right?

The New York Times

"But it doesn't feel right at this moment in time.

Independent

I have to say it doesn't feel right.

Independent

There's a Tesco and it doesn't feel right.

The Guardian

"Me and my brother's close, so it doesn't feel right.

The New York Times

If it doesn't feel right – it probably isn't.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it doesn't feel right" to express a subjective sense of unease or discomfort when something doesn't align with your intuition or values.

Common error

While "it doesn't feel right" is common, avoid overuse in formal writing. Opt for more precise language such as "it is inappropriate" or "it is unsuitable" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it doesn't feel right" functions as a subjective expression of discomfort, unease, or a sense that something is amiss. It's commonly used to convey a personal judgment or intuition about a situation, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Music

3%

Sports

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it doesn't feel right" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a subjective sense of unease or discomfort. According to Ludwig, it is frequently used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While perfectly acceptable in most situations, more formal alternatives might be preferable in professional settings. Remember that the essence of this phrase is personal intuition, so trust your gut when something just "doesn't feel right".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it doesn't sit well

Changes the verb from "feel" to "sit", altering the imagery slightly but maintaining the negative sentiment.

it feels off

Replaces "right" with "off", providing a more concise and informal expression of something being amiss.

it doesn't seem appropriate

Shifts the focus to appropriateness, implying a violation of social norms or expectations.

it doesn't resonate

Emphasizes a lack of connection or agreement with something on a deeper level.

it gives me a bad feeling

Focuses on the emotional response, highlighting the negative intuition associated with something.

something feels wrong

Generalizes the feeling of unease, suggesting an unspecified issue or problem.

it makes me uncomfortable

Directly expresses the discomfort caused by something, emphasizing personal experience.

it just doesn't click

Suggests a lack of understanding or connection, implying a failure to grasp something.

it doesn't pass the smell test

Uses an idiomatic expression to indicate that something seems suspicious or untrustworthy.

my gut tells me it's wrong

Highlights the intuitive sense of something being incorrect or undesirable.

FAQs

How can I use "it doesn't feel right" in a sentence?

You can use "it doesn't feel right" to express a sense of discomfort or unease about a situation. For example: "I reviewed the contract, but something about it "doesn't feel right"."

What are some alternatives to "it doesn't feel right"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it doesn't sit well", "it feels off", or "it doesn't seem appropriate", depending on the specific context.

When is it more appropriate to use a more formal alternative to "it doesn't feel right"?

In formal writing or professional settings, using more precise and objective language is preferable. Instead of "it doesn't feel right", consider using phrases like "the approach is unsuitable" or "the action is inappropriate".

Is "it doesn't feel right" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it doesn't feel right" is grammatically correct and widely accepted in spoken and written English, especially in informal contexts. It effectively conveys a subjective sense of unease or discomfort.